School Counseling

The Master of Science in School Counseling program is designed primarily to provide students the theoretical knowledge and training to be certified as K-8, 7-12 or K-12 school counselors. Students are equipped with the skills, knowledge, experience and personal growth that empower them to pursue careers as school counselors.

Candidates for the Master of School in Counseling degree will demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the following:

Psychological theories related to human growth and development and personality

The effects of human diversity on learning and development within the context of a global society and a diverse community of families

The principles of measurement and assessment, for both individual and group approaches

Career development and personal planning processes across the lifespan and methods of assisting learners in career exploration, goal setting, decision-making and planning

Classroom guidance methods and techniques

Development, implementation and maintenance of a comprehensive guidance program that provides responsive counseling services to all learners in the school community

A personal philosophy of Judeo-Christian ethics that reflects an integration of biblical principles with psychology, counseling and a personal faith

A commitment to lifelong improvement as professionals through reading, research, reflection, development of professional relationships and continued adherence to the ethical, legal and professional principles of the school counseling profession

School Counseling Certificate Program

Evangel also offers a “Certification Only” option for those who already have a Master’s degree in education, psychology or an approved related field and are not seeking a degree in school counseling. This program option completes all course requirements needed for school counseling certification in Missouri. The number of required courses for certification will depend on what a student is allowed to transfer.

Financial aid is not available for those seeking certification only. Once a student has enrolled and/or a plan has been filed with the state, students will be expected to complete remaining course work at Evangel.

Licensed Professional Counselor Certification

If a student intends to pursue LPC certification in addition to the Master of Science in School Counseling, the following courses are required:

Assessment Course

Psychopathology Course

Diverse Populations Course

To be certified as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), the following class will be needed beyond the requirements for the School Counseling certification:

Want to see exactly what classes you will take? The Program Plan (sometimes called a degree sheet) includes all specific requirements - including University proficiencies, Frameworks courses and degree requirements.

Each of Evangel's academic programs is made up of a set of core curriculum, program requirements and electives. The courses listed below are just a small sample of courses that might be taken as a part of this specific program.

The Master of Science in School Counseling requires 45 credit hours. Below is a sample of the classes you will take. For a full list of the course requirements, see the Program Plan (pdf).

Foundations of Guidance and Counseling

The philosophy, functions, and role of guidance in the educational program. Problems, responsibilities, and organization of guidance in elementary, middle, and secondary schools give impetus to identify and serve the needs of young people. Presents counseling and assessment aspects of the guidance program.

Advanced Developmental Psychology

Designed to study the developmental process from prenatal through adolescence. Various theories and stages of development are presented. Application of developmental theories to child and adolescent psychopathology and the counseling/therapy process is explored.

Research Methods and Statistics

Overview of basic research processes and the skills necessary to develop and conduct graduate research projects. Addresses issues related to the philosophy of science and the development role of scientific inquiry research along with specific issues related to research design.

Professional Orientation and Ethics

Introduces the field of counseling and therapy, focusing on the topics of ethics, professionalism, legal issues and responsibilities.

Psychology of the Middle School Student

Provides the psychological foundation relevant to appreciating and comprehending the diversity of the middle school age group.

Evangel University's world-class faculty is made up of caring, Christian professionals who are distinguished in their fields and dedicated to the development of tomorrow's Christian leaders.

About Evangel

Evangel is an accredited, liberal arts university with more than 100 academic programs on the cutting edge of today's professional fields. Our commitment to the integration of faith, learning and life attracts students from a wide variety of Christian denominational backgrounds who have a strong commitment to academics with a desire to combine their Christian faith with every aspect of their lives.